Factors Affecting Memory

Memory ability does change with age. Aging changes the brain and therefore memory ability. This is normal (provided there are no underlying medical conditions) and is referred to as "age-related" memory change. Let's look at some of the factors that can further affect memory change. First, "for the better"!

For the BetterStaying active (mentally and physically) seems to be the key to stabilizing memory change with age. Here are just a few "active" factors that can positively affect memory change: physical activity (exercise); mental activity (educational experiences, reading, crosswords, etc.); social activity (new experiences); healthy diet (lower fat and lower cholesterol). Now let's look at some of the factors that can further affect memory change "for the worse"!